Recent Grand Rapids and Michigan headlines:
- Mich. House committee hears testimony on bill to amend life-without-parole sentences for minors – Yesterday, the Michigan House Judiciary Committee heard over five hours of testimony on proposed legislation that would give the state’s parole board the option of freeing juveniles convicted of murder after 15 years.
- Supreme Court overturns major Michigan case – The U.S. Supreme Court has overturned a landmark 1986 ruling–which cam in a Michigan case–that forbid police from questioning suspects without an attorney present.
- Same-sex marriage advocates call for 2012 equality push – A hundred LGBT people and supporters protested in Lansing yesterday in response to news that California’s Proposal 8 was upheld by the California Supreme Court. At the protest, Julie Nemeck of Michigan Equality said that she hopes to put a resolution overturning Michigan’s ban on gay marriage.
- The work for safe schools continues: Citizens, legislators attend lobby day in Lansing to support anti-bullying legislation – Between the Lines reports on a recent lobbying effort in Lansing to support the passage of anti-bullying legislation.
- Backlash for Bash Back – Between the Lines reports on a federal lawsuit targeting the radical queer/trans. group Bash Back over a fall 2008 protest that targeted an anti-gay mega-church in Lansing.
- Michigan Backs Graduated Income Tax, Film Credits – Blogging for Michigan reports that 60% of Michigan residents polled support a graduated income tax instead of the state’s existing 4.35% flat rate income tax. Residents also support a maximum 42% tax break for filmmakers who shoot movies in Michigan.
- Bills to rise for wind power – Consumers Energy received approval from the Michigan Public Service Commission to add a $2.50 surcharge to their customers’ bills to support their plans to generate 450 megawatts of wind power.
If we missed anything, let us know in the comments.
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